What's Happening?
Arkansas State University’s Department of Theatre is set to present 'Little Shop of Horrors: The Musical' this November. Performances will take place in the Fowler Center’s Drama Theatre on Fridays and Saturdays, November 13, 14, 20, and 21 at 7:30 p.m.,
and on Sundays, November 15 and 22 at 2:30 p.m. The musical, based on the 1960 film, features music by Alan Menken and book and lyrics by Howard Ashman. It tells the story of Seymour, a down-on-his-luck florist who discovers a man-eating plant that promises him fame and fortune. The production includes content warnings for depictions of domestic abuse, murder, comedic/campy violence, mild language, and a man-eating plant, with a suggested rating of PG-13/Teen+.
Why It's Important?
The A-State Theatre's production of 'Little Shop of Horrors: The Musical' is important for several reasons. It provides a significant cultural event for the Jonesboro community and surrounding areas, offering access to live theatrical performance. For the students and faculty of Arkansas State University's Department of Theatre, it serves as a crucial educational and professional development opportunity, allowing them to apply their skills in acting, directing, music, and technical theater. The choice of a popular and engaging musical like 'Little Shop of Horrors' is likely to attract a broad audience, fostering community engagement with the arts and potentially introducing new patrons to university theater productions. The content warnings also highlight the theater's commitment to informing its audience about potentially sensitive themes.
What's Next?
Tickets for 'Little Shop of Horrors: The Musical' are currently available for purchase. They can be bought Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the A-State Box Office in First National Bank Arena, by calling (870) 972-2781, or online. Prices range from $15 to $20 per ticket, with free tickets available for A-State students at the box office with a valid student ID. Following the conclusion of this production, the A-State Theatre department will likely begin preparations for its next theatrical season, continuing its tradition of bringing diverse performances to the university and local community. The success of this musical could influence future programming choices and audience engagement strategies.
Beyond the Headlines
This production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' goes beyond mere entertainment by contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Jonesboro. University theater programs often serve as incubators for emerging talent, providing a platform for students to hone their craft and potentially pursue careers in the performing arts. The musical's themes, while presented with humor, touch on ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked desires, offering audiences a chance for reflection. Furthermore, the collaborative nature of theater production—involving actors, musicians, designers, and technical crews—fosters teamwork and interdisciplinary skills that are valuable both within and outside the arts. It reinforces the role of educational institutions in enriching the cultural landscape of their regions.
